Paywalls in Gaming could predict the future of the entire content business. Blocking audiences from exploring content through subscription paywalls can be a double edged sword. There has been enormous consumer backlash against subscription fees (over $100/ year) for Xbox Live and PSN, and it took years for irate Xbox owners to actually be able use their Netflix accounts via Xbox without being double dipped on a Live account.

A popular opinion among gamers is that paywalls and MicroTransactions are greedy and a financial exploitation of the gaming experience. Wrote one passionate gamer, “I don’t want it shoved in my face where I feel like in order to actually enjoy and play the game I have to keep anteing up. That gets very frustrating.” Consumer behavior and expectations can be directed and modified though when provided with a rich, deep and engaging content world.

Recurrent consumer spending through MicroTransactions, IAPs, and DLC could be the future for all content creators. Content developers and distributors, however, must walk a fine line between engaging their audience and alienating them. This ‘gamification’ of content has the potential to be a catalyst for exceptional future content franchises.

This article from kotaku.com makes a sound argument for the value of recurrent consumer spending in gaming and the corresponding quality of content.

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